Rights group urges Fifa to block Infantino’s re-election bid over term limits

Human rights organization FairSquare has urged FIFA to declare Gianni Infantino ineligible for re-election as president, arguing that he has already served the maximum of three terms as stipulated by the organization's statutes. FIFA presidents are capped at three terms in office. Infantino, however, argued in 2022 that his initial tenure, which began in 2016 following Sepp Blatter's resignation, should not be counted towards this limit due to its interruption.

FairSquare's director, Nicholas McGeehan, stated that this interpretation conflicts with FIFA statutes. The organization contends that the decision sets a dangerous precedent by circumventing the rule on term limits, which is designed to curb presidential power. Uefa, the Asian Football Confederation, and CONCACAF have called for a review of Infantino's conduct, citing his proposed US$20-billion subsidiary linked to FIFA competitions.

Several national associations have also expressed concerns. Scottish Football Association CEO Ian Maxwell announced his federation would not back Infantino's re-election. Infantino maintains support from the African and South American confederations. FIFA did not respond to requests for comment, but in December 2022, the FIFA Council had unanimously agreed that Infantino's first term should not count.

FairSquare also questioned the transparency of the 2022 ruling, arguing that the committee's reasoning was never made public.